Diagnostic value of history taking and physical examination to assess effusion of the knee in traumatic knee patients in general practice.

Objective: To assess the diagnostic value of history taking and physical examination for knee joint effusion in patients with a knee injury who consult their general practitioner (GP). In addition, to determine the association between effusion seen on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and internal derangement of the knee.

Design: Prospective, observational cohort study.